Details: This poster is of Olympia, by Edouard Manet. The painting was inspired by Diego Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, Titian's Venus of Urbino, which in turn refers to Giorgione's Sleeping Venus. It shows a nude woman attended by a black maid. Olympia has a confrontational gaze and there are a number of details identifying her as a demi-mondaine or courtesan. These include the orchid in her hair, her bracelet, pearl earrings and the oriental shawl on which she lies, symbols of wealth and sensuality. Olympia's hand firmly protects her sex, as if to emphasize her independence and sexual dominance over men. Olympia disdainfully ignores the flowers presented to her by her servant, probably a gift from a client.

Edouard Manet (January 23, 1832 - April 30, 1883) was a French painter. One of the first nineteenth century artists to approach modern-life subjects, he was a pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. His famous works include The Luncheon on the Grass, Olympia, A Bar at the Folies-Bergere, Music in the Tuileries, Cafe Concert, The Railway, Racing at Longchamp, Berthe Morisot, Self-portrait with Palette.